Short Term vs ACA 2026: Full Comparison Guide
Choosing between short term vs ACA 2026 plans? This guide compares cost, coverage, eligibility, and subsidies so you pick the **best option** for your wallet and health. Vivna helps you enroll in **5 minutes** — call 888-730-6001.
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Short Term vs ACA 2026: Side-by-Side
| Feature | Short-Term Health Insurance | ACA Marketplace (Obamacare) |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Gap coverage, self-employed, healthy | Families, pre-existing conditions, subsidies |
| Cost (Monthly) | $120–$250 | $0–$600 (after subsidy) |
| Coverage Length | Up to 36 months | 12 months (renewable) |
| Pre-Existing Conditions | Not covered | Fully covered |
| Subsidies | No | Up to $1,500/month |
| Enrollment | Anytime | Nov 1 – Jan 15 (or SEP) |
| Carrier Example | Pivot Health, UnitedHealthcare | Ambetter, Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare |
*Averages for 40-year-old. Your rate varies. Healthcare.gov for ACA quotes.
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When to Choose Short-Term Insurance 2026
- Between jobs or COBRA too expensive
- Waiting for ACA Open Enrollment
- Healthy and want low premiums
- Need coverage tomorrow
Pro Tip: Pivot Health offers up to 36 months — longest in the U.S.
When to Choose ACA 2026
- Have diabetes, asthma, or other conditions
- Qualify for subsidies (85% do)
- Want maternity, mental health, prescriptions
- Family of 3+ — bigger tax credits
Example: $60k household = $800+/month saved on ACA.
Short Term vs ACA 2026: Real Costs
Case Study (Age 35, Single, Healthy):
- Short-Term: $180/month (Pivot Health)
- ACA (after $300 subsidy): $150/month (Ambetter)
- Winner: ACA — but only with subsidy
Short Term vs ACA 2026 FAQs
Can I switch from short-term to ACA?
Yes! Enroll during Open Enrollment (Nov 1 – Jan 15) or Special Enrollment (job loss, move).
Does short-term count as ACA coverage?
No — but avoids tax penalty (gone since 2019).
Best of both worlds?
Yes — get short-term now, switch to ACA in January. We handle the transition.
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Sources: Healthcare.gov | PivotHealth.com | KFF.org